The Best Places to See on a Road Trip from Beverly to New Bedford
If you’re planning a road trip from Beverly, Massachusetts to New Bedford, Massachusetts, then you’re in for a treat! The drive is dotted with picturesque towns, scenic vistas, historical landmarks, and quaint seaside villages. With plenty of beautiful spots to visit along the way, it’s no wonder that this drive is considered one of the best road trips in Massachusetts. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the area with our ultimate list of the best places to see while driving from Beverly to New Bedford.
Take a Scenic Drive through Cape Ann
As you leave Beverly, take a scenic drive through Cape Ann, where you’ll find some of the most charming coastal towns in Massachusetts. From Gloucester’s working harbor to Rockport’s historic wharf district, you’ll be greeted with stunning views at every turn. Visit Halibut Point State Park in Rockport and watch the waves crash from the rocky shore. Head to Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester for some sun and surf or catch a sunset over the harbor from one of the many waterfront restaurants.
Visit the Salem Witch Museum in Salem
Salem is a historic city that is famous for its witch trials that took place in 1692. Visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the trials and the hysteria that gripped the town. The museum features exhibits and multimedia presentations that bring the story of the witch trials to life. You can also take a guided walking tour of the town to see the sites associated with the trials, including the Witch House, which is the only structure still standing with direct ties to the trials.
Explore Historic New Bedford Whaling Museum
New Bedford was once the whaling capital of the world and today, you can explore this rich history at the New Bedford Whaling Museum. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of whaling artifacts and offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what life was like on a whaling ship. You can also take a guided walking tour of New Bedford’s historic streets or visit the Seamen’s Bethel, which inspired the chapel in Herman Melville’s Moby Dick.
Hike in Freetown-Fall River State Forest
For nature lovers, a visit to the Freetown-Fall River State Forest is a must. The forest spans over 5,000 acres and offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic drives. Take a hike on the Copicut Trail to see some of the forest’s stunning waterfalls, or visit the Pocasset Fire Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Pack a picnic lunch and spend an afternoon lounging by one of the forest’s serene lakes.
Relax on Westport Beaches
Westport is home to some of the most tranquil beaches in Massachusetts, perfect for a lazy afternoon of sunbathing and swimming. Visit Horseneck Beach State Reservation to explore over 600 acres of pristine beachfront, dunes, and salt marshes. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the Westport River. The town is also known for its working farms, so be sure to sample some of the local produce at one of the many farm stands.
Take in the Sights at Battleship Cove
Take a break from your drive and visit Battleship Cove in Fall River, where you can explore the world’s largest collection of historic naval ships. Walk the decks of the USS Massachusetts, the world’s most heavily armed battleship during World War II, and learn about the everyday life of sailors on board. You can also tour the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., a destroyer that served during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and the USS Lionfish, a WWII-era submarine.
Conclusion
With so much to see and explore along the way, driving from Beverly to New Bedford is a road trip that you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just soaking up some sun at the beach, this stretch of Massachusetts has something for everyone. So, put on your favorite playlist, pack some snacks, and hit the road! You’re sure to discover something new with every mile.